likelyexplanation
nounUK /ˈlaɪkli ˌɛkspləˈneɪʃən/
US /ˈlaɪkli ˌɛkspləˈneɪʃən/
A likely explanation is a reason that probably makes sense.
The teacher gave a likely explanation for why the class was late.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A guess about why something happened that seems probably true.
Her likely explanation was that the cat knocked over the cup.
3. A simple answer that fits the facts better than other answers.
The likely explanation for the noise was the wind.
4. A reason that most people would believe is probably right.
The likely explanation for his smile was the good news.